Spanish word

respetuoso

Pronunciation

IPA/respeˈtwoso/

Meaning

  • adjectivepolite

Example

Sé respetuoso con los demás.

Be polite to others.

Illustration for respetuoso (polite)

More examples

Siempre intenta ser respetuoso con sus colegas.

He always tries to be respectful toward his colleagues.

Core concept

Gentle attention that honors another's feelings and traditions.

Common phrases

  • respetuoso con los demás

    respectful toward others

  • ser respetuoso en público

    be respectful in public

  • mantenerse respetuoso

    remain respectful

Similar words

cortés: Observes social etiquette with formal courtesy and civil politeness.
amable: Offers genuine friendliness and gentle kindness in interactions.
atento: Remains alert to others' needs, offering thoughtful, prompt help.
educado: Exhibits polite behavior that reflects upbringing and social training.

Definition in Spanish

Que actúa con deferencia y estima hacia otras personas o sus costumbres.

Word origin

Derived from respetar, ultimately from Latin respicere/respectare, with -oso forming an adjective that conveys being "full of respect".

Usage tips

  • Typical constructions are respetuoso con alguien for people and respetuoso de las tradiciones for customs, so watch which preposition fits the target of respect.

Other meanings

  • respectfuladjective

Opposites

Related words

  • respetarrespectverb
  • respetuosidadrespectfulnessnoun

Word lists with this word